- Web Master
- September 27, 2024
Thinzar Nwe,
Narinjara News, 4 October 2024
Amid
the Arakan conflict, more than 700,000 mangrove trees have been planted through
grassroots initiatives led by Ko Myo Lwin, an environmental activist from Ann
Township, Arakan State.
According
to Ko Myo Lwin's interview with Narinjara News, most of the mangrove planting
has taken place in the forest between Ann Township and Kyaukphyu Township since
November 2023 when battles for the towns commenced.
Speaking
about their efforts, Ko Myo Lwin stated, "Once stability is restored in
Arakan State, reforestation and tree planting will follow. We anticipate
challenges in collaborating on these efforts then. This is why we are planting
now despite the difficulties. Our primary goal is to replant in previously
deforested areas and to introduce trees that provide food for birds."
A
young participant involved in mangrove tree planting highlighted significant
challenges faced in cultivating mangroves, including escalating fuel and
sapling costs as well as constant artillery shelling and airstrikes from the
junta.
Local
inhabitants reported instances of mangrove trees being felled for firewood due
to livelihood crises which continues to contribute to ongoing deforestation of
mangroves.
Conservationists
stressed that preserving mangrove forests is crucial given that the Arakan
region is coastal; they warned that deforestation could lead to severe
consequences such as heightened vulnerability to natural disasters and loss of
water resources, including fish and shrimp.
"Mangrove
forests shield us from natural disasters; during storms they mitigate wind
speeds and obstruct sea waves propelled by wind from reaching coastal areas
swiftly. Furthermore, mangroves play a pivotal role in combating climate
change," emphasized Ko Myo Lwin.
Since
202, Ko Myo Lwin and his team have primarily focused on planting mangrove trees
while simultaneously tending naturally growing plants.
In
previous years, people planted mangroves along riverbanks within Ann township,
such as Taungup and Kyaukphyu townships; however, ongoing conflicts have
rendered certain areas unsuitable for further plantation activities.
Photo: Ko Myo Lwin